Property Tips

Preparing Your Home For Sale

So you've made the decision to sell. The marketing plan is in place and you're ready to have potential buyers walk through your home but, the question remains... are you really ready for this?Here are some tips that have proven to be invaluable to the successful home seller.

The right preparation and just a little investment, whether it be time or money spent on sprucing up your home, can deliver significant financial results.

OPEN FOR INSPECTION!

First National is familiar with, and understands, differing buyer requirements. To help us get you the best result for your home, we have provided some tips that have proven to be invaluable to the successful home seller.

Consider re-configuring rooms

If you are advertising a three bedroom home for sale, then that is what people will be coming to see. Consider re-organising the rooms prior to the sale to show them to their best advantage. Hire or borrow some bedroom furniture, and put excess items in storage.

Tidy up the garden

Keep in mind that first impressions count. Dig out weeds, put mulch on the garden beds, keep paths and the driveway swept, prune and shape trees and shrubs, and make sure rubbish bins are clean and tucked away.

Get rid of the clutter

Crowded shelves and drawers can make rooms and storage space seem cluttered and smaller. Consider putting non-essential items in storage throughout the sale period.

Not everyone loves your cat as much as you!

If you have pets, it?s also advisable to keep them out of the house, or ask friends or family if they will look after them during inspections.

Note: Remember to air your house as well as store your pets bowls and toys prior to inspection.

Remember first impressions last Set the scene for your prospective buyer. Draw attention to your home?s best features by displaying fresh flowers and hanging decorative hand towels in the bathroom.

Garage Sales

I want to hold a garage sale. Where do I start?YOUR GARAGE SALE CHECKLIST

Firstly

Find a space to gather all items to be sold

Ask your family, friends and neighbours if they have items they would like to also sell

Check your local community guide to ensure no major events or sporting games will be held on that same date

Two Weeks Before

Place a brief advertisement in your local paper detailing the address, day, date, and start and finish times

Don?t include your name and telephone number in the advertisement

The Evening Before/Day of Sale

Place signage and arrows on the corners of your street and on both sides of major roads leading to your street. Ask your local First National agent if you may borrow their garage sale signs

Have all helpers wear a money belt or, alternatively, have one person handling transactions

Have plenty of change available

Have drinks and seating available for helpers

Getting Organised

Sort through your possessions to look for items you no longer need. Store them separately. Let family, friends and neighbours know you?re holding a garage sale and ask if they have any items they would like included. Ask if they would like to help on the day. Clean all items to ensure a good price

Date and Time

9am is a good starting time as you will find serious buyers will probably start knocking on your door an hour or so before. An earlier start could result in buyers disturbing you and the neighbours. Remember to clearly state a finish time (12pm or 1pm) otherwise people will still arrive later in the day

Security

Have plenty of change available ? lots of small items will require plenty of small change. Large items may require you to break larger notes

Do not accept personal cheques. Ensure all items are paid for and removed immediately or at least on the same day. If people wish to pick up items later in the day, be sure to get the payment in full. If really pushed to hold an item, give a limited time, say half and hour

Advertising and Signs

Place advertisements in your local paper during the week of your Garage Sale as most hunters will normally check local papers. Daily papers tend to be expensive but some do have special sections and deals that may be worth investigating. Place an advertisement one week ahead and again the day before the event

Do not include your name or telephone number or you may be inundated with phone calls

Your advertisement should be brief. If you have special items that you think will entice buyers remember to mention them. List items such as furniture, baby goods, books, bric-a-brac etc.

Place signage the evening before or on the morning of the sale. Keep signs brief ? day, time and address

Please respect other people?s property when putting up signs. Consider approaching local shopkeepers as they may allow signs in their windows. Also, consider community notice boards. These can be placed about a week before the event. Often your First National Real Estate office will also be able to help you with the supply of directional pointer signs

A Garage Sale is a great way to clear your house of clutter, make money and, most importantly, have fun!